Mild stroke and related issues

    
      Re: Mild stroke and related issues
    


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Posted by CCF Neuro MD on July 12, 1997 at 08:27:28:

In Reply to: Mild stroke and related issues posted by Alicia Freed on July 03, 1997 at 16:39:36:
  A few weeks ago I awoke to find that the left side of my body was weak and
  numb.  Not the extreme that I couldn't walk or function, but enough to
  disturb me greatly.  In the coming weeks, I have begun to suffer from
  dizziness, nausea and global headaches.  I have developed light sensitivity
  and am frightened to what is going on inside my head.  Please give me an
  answer to what might be happening.  My doctor thinks I am crazy and too
  young to be worried about a strok or more serious neurological disorder.
  Please advise me as soon as possible.  I have another appointment on
  July 7.  Thank you.
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Hi, Alicia,
  Waking up with weakness and numbness on one side of your body is very concerning.  Your worry about this being possibly a stroke is a very reasonable one.  One usual way to judge the likelihood of a stroke is to go by so called "risk factors" which include older age, high blood pressure, male sex, high cholesterol, family history, and history of heart disease.  In general, the fewer of risk factors one has, the less likely a stroke will hit that person.  Keep in mind, though, this applies only when we deal with common strokes. Young people can also have stroke but the causes and risk factors would be quite differernt.  A common senerio is one related to sudden increased activity causing a trauma to one of the big vessels in the neck area.  
  In addtion, your symptoms make me suspect several other things.  One is that you might have had a seizure at night, and waken up with the "hang-over" effect (called "post-ictal", in medical term).  Another possibility would be a headache varient (migraine varient), which occationally presents stroke-like.  
  In my opinion, you will benefit from a full neurological evaluation, preferrably by a stroke specialist.  Our Stroke Center led by Dr. Anthony Furlan, is nationally well recognized.  We will be happy to see you here if you have a chance to come to Cleveland area for a visit.  The number to call for your appointment is toll free [phone] ext. 45559 or local [phone].

  This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your primary physician for the diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.